Advincula urges hope in Mary as 'guiding star' amid corruption, poverty

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula urged the faithful to anchor their hope in the Blessed Virgin Mary, describing her as the “star that lights our way” amid the nation’s persistent problems of corruption and poverty.

Preaching during the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on Monday, December 8, Advincula said Catholics must look to Mary for inspiration despite the “endless trials” the country is currently facing.

“Tulad ng isang bituin sa gabi, si Maria ay nagbibigay liwanag sa gitna ng dilim,” Advincula said in his homily at the Manila Cathedral, formally known as the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Like a star in the night, Mary gives light in the midst of darkness.)

He said many Filipinos feel hopeless amid “the issue of corruption that our country is facing today” and the “continuous problem of poverty that further burdens many of our countrymen.”

“Kung minsan ay parang wala na tayong pag-asa tulad na lamang sa isyu ng katiwalian na kinakaharap ng ating bayan ngayon at sa patuloy na suliranin ng kahirapan na lalong nagpapahirap sa marami nating mga kababayan,” he added.

In moments of confusion and despair, Advincula said Mary’s presence serves as a quiet reminder that God remains with His people.

“Just as sailors trusted the stars to lead them safely home, we trust Mary to lead us always to Christ, our true destination,” he said. “When our hearts feel confused. When our families face trials. When society seems overwhelmed by division, corruption, or fear. Mary’s presence is like a star that whispers ‘nandito pa rin ang Diyos.’”

December 8 is a special non-working holiday declared by the government last year in celebration of the Immaculate Conception, the principal patroness of the Philippines.

The title was formally proclaimed in September 1942 by Pope Pius XII through the apostolic letter Impositi Nobis.